Colt Defender

[vito]

I'm interested in buying a compact 45 acp and saw the Colt Defender on the Colt website. I think its a great looking gun, my question is whether or not it is a great shooting gun. I've actually never owned any Colt, and I would appreciate any input from this knowledgable group of enthusiasts on this forum. I went to handgunreview.com and couldn't find a single review for this particular model. If any of you have bought this gun, I would love to know what it actually cost you. Thanks.

["DoubleAction"]

Vito; The defender is more of a concealed/ carry defensive pistol with a short 3" barrel, in the .45 acp. The slide cycle on this pistol is very short and for all practical purposes, it is just a tool to aide in the concealed method of defensive carry. If you have the extra money to spend on one, go for it, but for a shooter, I recommend a 1911 with, at least, a 4" inch barrel. I have an Officer's ACP with a 3 1/2" barrel, and it is a good shooter, but I like the 4" ,and 4 1/4" Commander better in the .45acp.

[vito]

Appreciate the advice. I'll look at the Commander before I buy either Colt. I also am looking at the compact Kimber; pricey, but feels like a nice gun and certainly has a good reputation with LEO's that I have spoken to.

["DoubleAction"]

The Kimber is a very good choice, and it has most everything you will want in extras. I've noticed some Commanders are coming out of the factory with fitted beavertail grip safeties. Whatever you look at, pay special attention to the slide to frame fit and barrel lock up.

[TBT]

vito said:

Appreciate the advice. I'll look at the Commander before I buy either Colt. I also am looking at the compact Kimber; pricey, but feels like a nice gun and certainly has a good reputation with LEO's that I have spoken to.

You won't be dissapointed with a Kimber. Worth every penny.